Tim Curry, best known for distinctive acting roles, also pursued a solo rock career in the 1970s and early 1980s after his breakthrough in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Although his records did not become major commercial successes, the article argues that they demonstrate the range of his musical ability and help explain why he continued taking prominent musical roles on screen.

His first Ode Records album was initially shelved and later released as …From The Vaults, before he signed to A&M Records and issued Read My Lips, Fearless and Simplicity. “I Do The Rock”, from Fearless, became his best-performing US chart entry through its spoken-word, eccentric style and references to rock figures; producer Bob Ezrin praised Curry’s charisma and intensity in the studio. Curry later joked that a compilation could not be called Greatest Hits because “there weren’t any”, while his singing remained familiar to audiences through films including Rocky Horror, Muppet Treasure Island and Annie.